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The highly-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 is all set to commence on Friday with defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) scheduled to host Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. In this article, we will look at the big updates around the IPL 2024 that took place on Thursday, March 21, but before that, let’s check the matches scheduled for the day.
Today's match preview
Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore: MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings will be looking to defend their IPL title as they commence their IPL 2024 campaign on Friday against Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The match will take place at 08:00 p.m. IST following a star-studded opening ceremony.
Major events around IPL that happened on March 21
Ruturaj Gaikwad replaces MS Dhoni as CSK captain in IPL 2024
On the eve of the Indian Premier League 2024 opener, a social media post created a massive uproar which included all captains, leading the 10 franchises this season. Here, the official account of the IPL revealed that Indian batter Ruturaj Gaikwad was named the captain of the Chennai Super Kings, replacing MS Dhoni. The official statement about this captaincy change, released by the Chennai Super Kings said, " MS Dhoni has handed over Chennai Super Kings’ captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the start of TATA IPL 2024.
Got to know about Dhoni’s decision before photoshoot: CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan
Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan opened up about MS Dhoni handing over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the IPL 2024. The five-time IPL winners dropped a bombshell on fans on the eve of the tournament by announcing Gaikwad as the new CSK captain. The first announcement was made on the official handles of IPL, where Gaikwad was seen along with the other captains during the photoshoot before the commencement of the tournament.
It’s a privilege: Ruturaj Gaikwad breaks silence on replacing MS Dhoni as CSK captain
The 27-year-old Ruturaj said, “Feels good. It’s a privilege obviously. I feel more than that, it’s a huge responsibility but I am really excited because of the kind of group we have. Everyone’s experienced enough so not much of a thing for me to do. Plus, I have Mahi bhai in the team, Jaddu bhai as well. Ajju bhai as well, who has been a great captain to guide me, so not much to worry, just looking forward to enjoy.”
Rajasthan Royals' Adam Zampa withdraws from IPL 2024 citing personal reasons
Australian leg-spinner and Rajasthan Royals star Adam Zampa has pulled out of the upcoming Indian Premier League 2024 season. The 17th edition of the world's biggest T20 franchise tournament has seen several key overseas players withdraw for various personal and fitness-related reasons, especially with the T20 World Cup in June.
Rohit Sharma reacts to MS Dhoni handing over CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad
Former MI captain Rohit Sharma, who was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the MI captain 2024 season onwards, reacted to the announcement. Sharma shared a picture with MS Dhoni in their respective IPL jerseys and posted it with a handshake emoji on his Instagram story. Notably, the start of the IPL 2024 will mark the end of an era as Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli won’t be leading their respective franchise.
Rinku Singh smashes huge six to KKR’s most expensive buy Mitchell Starc
Kolkata Knight Riders’ star batter Rinku Singh hit a mammoth six to Mitchell Starc, who was the most expensive purchase in the IPL 2024 mini-auction. Starc became the most expensive player in the history of the tournament with the signing, followed by compatriot Pat Cummins. In one of the clashes between Team Gold and Team Purple, Starc delivered a lower full toss, which was easy for Rinku to hit directly into the stands towards the leg side for a six.
